As Halloween approaches and the air fills with spooky thrills, let’s chat about something that might send shivers down your spine: your will! Believe it or not, over 70% of people don’t have a will, and that’s a frightful thought indeed. But don’t let it haunt you! A will is simply a helpful tool, and creating one is easier than you might think. Here’s a ghoulishly good list of “don’ts” to guide you through this important process:
1. Don’t Delay Like a Wandering Ghost
Procrastination is the scariest trick of all! You might think, “I’ll get to it later,” but time has a sneaky way of slipping through your fingers. Don’t wait until it’s too late—grab your broomstick and get it done now! For your peace of mind and the comfort of your loved ones, put your will together while you can.
2. Don’t Go It Alone
Sure, you might think saving a few bucks by crafting your own will sounds good, but nothing beats the comfort of expert guidance. A face-to-face chat with a skilled estate planning attorney can illuminate the shadows and help you draft a will tailored to your specific needs. Treat yourself to that peace of mind—after all, you deserve it!
3. Don’t Forget Your Other Spooky Essentials
Your will is just one part of the whole haunted estate planning package. Think about trusts, life insurance, joint accounts, and other documents like power of attorney and living wills. An experienced attorney can help weave all these elements into a cohesive plan that covers all your bases.
4. Don’t Let It Gather Dust
Just like cobwebs in the corners of an old, haunted house, your will can become outdated if you don’t keep it fresh. Life changes—kids grow, laws shift, and new circumstances arise. Review your will at least once a year to ensure it reflects your wishes. After all, you want it to work for you, not against you!
5. Don’t Hide It Away Like a Treasure
A will is only effective if someone can find it! Make sure it’s stored safely, but also let a trusted friend or family member know where it is. A little foresight can save your loved ones a lot of stress during a difficult time.
Your friends at the Community Foundation of White County can help guide you on how to incorporate charitable giving into your planning. Including an estate gift to support your community through CFWC not only leaves a meaningful legacy but also demonstrates your values to loved ones. Together, we can help strengthen White County through charitable giving, making a difference that lasts well beyond Halloween!
As the little goblins take to the streets this season, don’t let the thought of not having a will haunt you. Chase away those spooky feelings and schedule an appointment with an estate planning attorney to create a will that truly reflects your wishes.
For more information—and to snag a free Personal Information Record (perfect for singles and couples to gather vital details)—reach out to us today. Let’s make sure you’re ready to face the future with confidence! Happy Halloween!
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